Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
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Question 196: To ask the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform his proposals for improvement or replacement of the various Garda stations throughout County Kildare; the extent to which it is intended to modernise and upgrade in line with modern requirements; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34787/07]

Brian Lenihan Jnr (Dublin West, Fianna Fail)
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There is a significant ongoing programme of replacement and refurbishment of Garda stations and other Garda accommodation around the country, including County Kildare. The Garda accommodation programme is based on agreed priorities established by An Garda Síochána and is brought forward in close co-operation with the Office of Public Works, which has responsibility for the provision and maintenance of Garda accommodation.

I am informed by An Garda Síochána that one of the current building and refurbishment projects in County Kildare is the construction of a new Garda Station at Leixlip; this is progressing well and is due for completion in 2008. Extensive improvement works to Celbridge Garda Station are nearing completion and works are planned for Castledermot and Clane Garda Stations in 2008. Major funding of the Garda Building Programme will continue with €260 million from the National Development Plan. The Garda authorities are working on the development of a strategic, multi-annual development plan as recommended in the Garda Inspectorate's third report. In addition, an annual maintenance budget is provided in the Garda Vote for the upkeep of stations including those in County Kildare.